Dutch Police Prevents Major Terrorist Attack, Seven Men Arrested

On Thursday evening, the Dutch Police prevented a major terrorist attack in the Netherlands. Police reports confirm that seven men, aged from 21 to 34, were arrested in Arnhem, Rotterdam, Vlaardingen and Weert and suspected to prepare a terrorist attack. The investigation regarding these arrests started in April 2018.

The main suspect, alleged ringleader, is a 34-year old man with Iraqi origins,. He was previously arrested in 2017 in an attempt to travel to the battlefield of the Islamic State. The police investigation revealed the suspects were in possession of five small firearms. Their preparations were investigated to be including a search of arms and explosives, including AK47’s, small bombs, hand grenades and possibly materials for one or more car bombs. The police completed the house raids of the suspects today, and have uncovered further details.

Within the past six years, the Dutch Police have successfully prevented and foiled plans for terrorist attacks in July 2013, March and December of 2016, April and June of 2018 and the latest one being on Thursday.

The National Coordinator for Security and Counterterrorism (NCTV) releases the threat level for the Netherlands every quarter. This level currently remains “substantial,” which is at number four on a scale of one to five.

People living in the capital city are to remain vigilant at all times and report any kind of suspicious activity. Citizens can report suspicious behaviour anonymously to Meld Misdaad Anoniem (the ‘Report Crime Anonymously’ help desk) at 0800 7000.